Capping Machine
The machine is used for automatically capping 12-liter hobbocks.
Technical Specifications
- Machine Dimensions2.2 m × 1.6 m × 3.7 m
- Control & AutomationSiemens
Implementation and Solution
The Hobbock is filled with a metal powder (non-magnetic).
The hobbock enters the machine on a roller conveyor and is stopped by the pneumatic stoppers. The stoppers also serve to separate the hobbocks.
The lids are stored in two magazines located to the left and right of the machine. A linear handling system retrieves the lids from these magazines. When one magazine is empty, it can be refilled manually while the other is being processed. This ensures that production continues without interruption. The lids must be loaded in the correct orientation, alternating with the clamping rings (to ensure neat stacking).
The linear handling system pneumatically rotates the lids into the correct position and feeds them to the capping head. There, the lids are held in place magnetically, and the clamping ring is raised and held in position by a mechanical, servo-driven mechanism.
The hobbock is lifted using a lifting spindle unit, and the clamping ring is closed again.
The plastic split pin is separated by a vibrating hopper, pneumatically fed to the head through a rectangular hose, and then pressed into place.
The hobbock is then lowered again and the machine continues moving.
The machine is enclosed by an aluminum profile system. Both sides can be fully opened via doors, making them accessible.
Base machine:
• Base frame, aluminum profile system
• Maintenance doors on both sides with safety switches
• LED lighting
• Control cabinet
• Storage system for 2 × 40 lids, including low-stock indicator via light signal
Lid Conveyor:
• Timing belt shaft, including servo system:
• Lifting unit for picking up lids:
• Electromagnet:
• Swivel unit
Lid head:
• Mechanism for opening/closing the rings, including servo technology:
• Electromagnet:
• Ring tensioner
Powered roller conveyor, approximately 1 m long, in front of and behind the machine
Stopper
Lifting station for 12-liter hobbocks (manually height-adjustable for other containers, if necessary)
Maximum total weight of the containers: 28 kg
Results
| Key Figures / Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Cycle time | ca. 30 s |
| Machine Availability | > 85 % |
| Control | Siemens |
| Pneumatics | Festo |
| Drive Technology | Bosch Rexroth / Siemens |
| Compressed Air Supply | 6 bar |
| Power Supply | 400 V 50 Hz, 10 kW |
| Dimensions | ca. (H × B × L) 2,2 m × 1,6 m × 3,7 m |

